Say hello to the next 50 years, Brandon-Souris

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 20/07/2025 (251 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The dust has settled on the federal election and I would like to invite reflection on the next 50 years. Why 50 years? It is a convenient time frame: a distant horizon, but short enough to be comprehended within a single lifespan. I would like to extend some friendly encouragement to us as citizens and also to Grant Jackson as our new Member of Parliament.

There is something to be gained by having a 50-year perspective. What we do now — in our own lives, in government policy and in the wider society — will echo through time. So every once and awhile, it is good to step back and take an overall view, outside of the grind of the everyday or the hustle and bustle of an election campaign. I offer some initial thoughts in a few general categories.

WORK AND DIGNITY

Our new MP could be labelled as “just” a career politician, in the same way the Liberals portrayed his party leader, Pierre Poilievre. I encourage Jackson to counter such criticisms and defend the worthiness of his line of work.

But in fairness, let’s remember that the Conservatives have also stooped to this level of disparagement, like calling former prime minister Justin Trudeau “just” a drama teacher. Since when was it good to denigrate a career in education? And to belittle work in literature or the arts?

As voters, we should judge those running for office — regardless of their chosen career — for qualities like character, competence and curiosity. And let’s recognize the value and dignity of all work.

PARLEZ-VOUS FRANÇAIS?

I read the campaign websites of our three local candidates and attended the public debate at the university. There were no references made or questions asked about the ability of the candidates in Canada’s other official language. But a working knowledge of French is vital not only for understanding the country, but also for an MP to advance to positions of leadership.

Why shouldn’t we citizens of Brandon-Souris be ambitious for our MP? Why shouldn’t we see our MP as playing a key role in committees and — when in government — as a parliamentary secretary or as a member of cabinet?

CLIMATE CHANGE

Well, in 2075, we will know how climate change turned out, won’t we? We will know if the experts predicting disaster were correct or off the mark.

Climate change is one of those existential issues that, ironically, can be easily overlooked. There were no questions about climate change from the panel at the public debate, for example. But an MP must consider such weighty matters. Fortunately, an MP has access to excellent information. And they need to be well informed to ponder those big concerns — AI and the next pandemic are other examples — that may not get raised in everyday discussions. Let’s encourage our MP to learn extensively, consult broadly and think deeply.

INCOME AND TAXES

“Canada is in a cost-of-living crisis with food prices soaring, housing costs doubling, and everyday essentials out of reach,” Jackson said on his campaign website. “The situation in Manitoba is dire … since 2021, Manitoba has seen a 68 per cent increase in food bank usage.” Jackson also said that “in 2024, the average Canadian family earned an income of $147,570.”

Something is not right here. Many Canadians are suffering, with “everyday essentials out of reach.” But with an average income of about $150,000; many families would appear to be doing quite well.

We voters must demand honesty from our leaders. Please don’t pander to us. Please tell us the truth. Some of us will need to pay more in taxes. Of course, we should reduce inefficiencies in government and end outdated programs. But both main parties propose measures that will require more tax revenue: to eliminate the deficit, to help those in need and to boost our military spending.

And let’s keep in mind that long-term perspective. Every dollar the government borrows now will cost us interest – today and decades into the future. We would rather not pay more in taxes. But we want the truth.

50 YEARS

Let’s conclude with the notion of a 50-year outlook. Grant Jackson, our new MP, is 28. He is a Conservative. This is Brandon-Souris. Future election victories are almost guaranteed. If he retires at the same age as his predecessor, Jackson will serve for 50 years. This is a great responsibility and also a great opportunity. Good luck, sir.